Things are not going well in Minnesota. Three summers ago, Minnesotans watched as their once-beloved Kevin Garnett celebrated his first NBA title as a member of the Boston Celtics. Two weeks ago, they watched in horror as Brett Favre threw an interception late in the fourth to halt the Vikings’ march to their first Super Bowl since 1976.
Behind the Bench
THIRD MAN IN: Tiger, Elin, and Sex rehab
So it looks like Tiger has decided to do something about his errant wood, and it’s not what most people would have expected. In late December, the most recognizable athlete in the world checked into a sex rehabilitation clinic in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Predictably, this news led to some backlash in the national tabloids, but if Tiger and those around him feel that he has a problem – and judging by recent events, this seems likely – then it’s good to see that he’s actually doing something about it.
THIRD MAN IN: Gilbert Arenas’s fall from grace
Overflowing with confidence, talent, and charisma, Gilbert Arenas was the unofficial darling of the NBA just two seasons ago. A cocky sharpshooter who worked hard to make his way to the top of the basketball world, Arenas captivated the league with his flashy smile and graceful style of play.
THIRD MAN IN: An open letter to Manny Pacquiao
Dear Manny, When you retired Oscar De La Hoya in 2008, how long did it take for the media to start downplaying your victory? A day? He was old, drained, and unfit. You had to win. When you ended Ricky Hatton’s career with one of the most devastating left hooks in boxing history, the haters still refused to crawl back into the woodwork.
Third man in: Rooting for Rex
In the world of professional sports, it’s easy to find athletes whose behaviour is unpredictable, bizarre, or downright obnoxious. In the NBA, MLB, and NFL, it is commonplace to witness multimillionaire athletes doing and saying outrageous things. It’s a little more challenging to find that same type of individual in the professional coaching ranks.